Infant massage is an age old tradition and in many areas of the world, massaging infants is a common practice. Research confirms the importance of a “…nurturing touch in the healthy growth, development and maturation of children” (Tiffany Field, Ph.D). Numerous other studies have also shown the many developmental benefits of positive contact as part of baby’s early life.

Touch is a very powerful element in human bonding, as are communication, both verbal and non-verbal, eye contact, facial expressions, soothing sounds, and smells. Infant massage encompasses and supports all these critical elements of bonding.

Just like adults, massaging babies can have the exact same effects!

Infant-Parent attachment or “bonding”

Relaxation

Helps baby feel loved

Promotes better sleep

Facilitates body awareness

Boosts immune system

Sensory stimulation

Improves skin condition

Improves blood circulation

Helps digestion & increases baby's weight

Balances respiration

Help waste elimination

Helps build parents’ and baby’s self-esteem

Helps you learn about your baby (their needs and desires)

Pleasurable experience

Stimulates production of oxytocin (Oxytocin is a hormone which can be produced by both male and female persons during massage. It is useful as a pain reliever and has a calming effect on the person.)

Benefits of Infant Massage for Parents:

Caregivers report feeling more comfortable and confident in their ability to care for baby.

Parents learn to understand and respond to baby’s cues.

Parents learn techniques to comfort, calm and soothe their babies.

Provides an additional avenue for close and nurturing contact.

Infant Massage is one of the most natural and pleasant methods of providing this important early nurturing and an amazing tool for helping parents become closer to their babies.